Dennis Bailey, 69, Rochester, passed away at 9:20 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 27, 2017, at his residence.

On Dec. 3, 1947, Dennis was born in Chicago. Growing up he shared his childhood with two sisters and a brother. Following high school, patriotism beckoned. Dennis answered the call serving with the United States Army.

On Feb. 15, 1985, in Porter County’s St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dennis married the love of his life, Pamela Marie Von Huben. They shared 32 years of life’s adventures. Together they raised three beautiful daughters Michelle, Kimberly and Mallorie. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of two grandchildren.

With a strong work ethic developed during his formative years Dennis worked since age sixteen. He was a member of retail management primarily with K-Mart working in northwest Indiana, then transferring to K-mart of Peru. As part of the leadership team, Dennis was a co-manager at Wal-Mart in Plymouth until he retired in 2016.

Gifted with his hands, Dennis was skilled with carpentry and home repair. His basement wood shop was the scene where he created to repair or improve his home. He once talked his wife Pam thru installing a sink faucet and drain system. To relax they felt great enjoyment and relaxation being on the golf course while shooting 18 holes.

Dennis will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Pam; three daughters: Michelle Wasz and husband Robert of Demotte, Kimberly Bailey of Valparaiso, Mallorie Bailey and fiance Jared Figlio of Rochester; two grandchildren: Brandon Ashby and Olivia Figlio; two sisters: Sandra Garza of Dyer, Donna Cooley of Lansing, Ill.; a brother: Richard Cooley and wife Dana of Portage; mother-in-law: Frances Von Huben of Chesterton and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding Dennis in death are the father who raised him, Ray Cooley, his mother Jean Malechi Cooley, and a nephew, Kevin Garza.

Father Michael McKinney will officiate services. Interment will be in the Chesterton Cemetery. Military rites will be conducted by the Fulton County Veteran’s Honor Guard and the US Army Honor Team.